"These refueling periods, which happen every 18 months, are an integral part of continuing nuclear energy's role in providing safe, reliable, affordable and carbon-free energy to our customers," said Barry Cox, senior director of nuclear operations.

Approximately one-third of Callaway's fuel assemblies will be replaced during the outage at the 1,285-megawatt nuclear facility. The time is also used for maintenance and upgrades that otherwise could not be performed while the reactor is running.

"There is a 10,000 item task list to accomplish. One of the largest jobs will be the first complete overhaul of the main generator stator assembly. We're taking it down to the wiring," Cox said. "Work we do this fall will ensure its long-term health."

With so many tasks to accomplish, Ameren Missouri will be adding approximately 1,000 additional workers from across the state. They'll be supplementing Callaway's regular workforce of about 800 employees and giving a tremendous boost to the local economy.

The Callaway Energy Center typically generates close to 25 percent of the electricity for Ameren Missouri’s 1.2 million customers.

"Customers will not notice any difference in their service," Cox said. "These outages are planned well in advance, ensuring other Ameren Missouri energy centers are available to serve customers."

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Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than 100 years, and the company's electric rates are among the lowest in the nation. Ameren Missouri's mission is to power the quality of life for its 1.2 million electric and 127,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company's service area covers 64 counties and more than 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area. For more information, visit Ameren.com/Missouri or follow us at @AmerenMissouri or Facebook.com/AmerenMissouri.